The festive spirit was in full swing in Leamington as the community gathered for the annual Santa Claus Parade on Saturday, November 29, 2025. Crowds of all ages lined the streets to welcome the jolly guest of honour and a vibrant procession that celebrated the region's diversity.
A Multicultural Celebration on Parade
This year's parade was a vibrant tapestry of local culture, featuring more than 65 entries that brought colour, music, and dance to Erie Street and Georgina Avenue. The event had a distinct multicultural flavour, with participants from Mexican, Lebanese, and Portuguese communities showcasing traditional outfits and performances. They were joined by numerous other local groups, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere that captivated spectators from start to finish.
Santa's Grand Finale and Fireworks
The parade's grand finale saw Santa Claus himself make a special stop at the Leamington Municipal Building. There, he presided over the ceremonial tree lighting, officially illuminating the holiday season for the town. The magical evening was capped off with a dazzling fireworks show, lighting up the sky and leaving the crowd in awe.
Holiday Cheer Spreads Across Windsor-Essex
The Leamington parade was just one of several holiday events kicking off the season across the county. The festivities began on Friday, November 28, with the Tilbury Lions Christmas Light Festival and a Santa Claus parade in that community. Also on the 28th, the Belle River BIA hosted a tree lighting and a Moonlight Madness shopping event.
Looking ahead, more parades are scheduled to bring cheer to the region:
- The 58th annual Windsor Santa Claus Parade will march through downtown on Sunday, December 8 at 6 p.m., traveling along Ouellette Avenue from Giles Boulevard to Pitt Street.
- The Essex BIA Santa Claus parade is set for Friday, December 13 at 6:30 p.m., proceeding along Talbot Street between Fairview Avenue and Medora Avenue.
- The Harrow Kinsmen Christmas parade will close out the local parade season on Saturday, December 20 at 6 p.m., winding down King Street in the town's downtown core.
The Leamington Santa Claus Parade successfully blended tradition with community spirit, offering a joyful start to the holiday season for residents of all ages and backgrounds.
